Senior Lab Automation Engineer

About the role

Natera is seeking an experienced engineer to design and implement automated systems for our laboratory workflows. You will own the development and execution of automated solutions that underpin NGS assay performance and quality. The role requires collaboration within a cross-functional team to construct and sustain integrated platforms that enable our genetic testing services. You will provide technical support for both the developed processes at the instrument level and the resulting assay outcomes. This position involves leading projects, mentoring team members, and balancing multiple concurrent development initiatives. The engineer will manage relationships with external contractors and work closely with internal scientific and software teams. You will be responsible for integrating diverse hardware platforms to ensure robust and scalable laboratory operations. This role is critical in translating scientific requirements into automated, production-ready systems.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Conceptualize and build automated solutions for NGS assay performance across laboratory workflows.
• Integrate diverse hardware including liquid handlers, plate readers, and robotics to create cohesive systems.
• Provide technical support for developed processes at both the instrument level and the assay result level to ensure reliability.
• Manage relationships with external contractors and collaborate with internal scientific and software teams to align on objectives.
• Lead projects and mentor team members while balancing multiple concurrent development tasks and priorities.
• Design and implement integrations for liquid handling platforms to optimize throughput and accuracy.
• Develop and maintain software scripts and frameworks to support automated laboratory operations and data flow.
• Troubleshoot complex issues that arise in integrated robotics and plate-handling systems within the life sciences environment.
• Contribute to the creation of technical documentation and standard operating procedures for automation processes.
• Participate in the full lifecycle of automation projects from initial concept through deployment and continuous improvement.
• Apply problem-solving skills to address challenges in workflow automation and data integrity.
• Support the configuration and validation of automated systems to meet regulatory and quality standards.
• Collaborate with data teams to ensure seamless handling and traceability of laboratory data.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and drive initiatives to enhance automation efficiency.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor degree in Biomedical Engineering or a related scientific discipline as the foundational academic credential.
• Possess 4+ years of professional experience in laboratory automation engineering within a relevant industry setting.
• Demonstrate proficiency in robotics and liquid handling system integration specifically within the life sciences sector.
• Show the ability to travel between local Austin sites within a 1-mile radius to support various laboratory operations.
• Exhibit strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills to manage complex automation projects.
• Have a proven track record of working effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic engineering environment.
• Understand the principles of good laboratory practices and their application in automated settings.
• Be capable of interpreting technical requirements and translating them into functional automation solutions.
• Maintain attention to detail to ensure accuracy and reproducibility in automated laboratory processes.
• Willingness to adhere to company policies and procedures related to safety and data security.

Nice to have

• Possess a background in NGS or clinical laboratory environments to better understand workflow contexts.
• Have experience with software programming, data handling, and database management to support automation logic.
• Demonstrate familiarity with LIMS systems and their integration with laboratory automation platforms.
• Show prior work with genomic data pipelines and their associated computational requirements.
• Bring experience in clinical laboratory operations to ensure practical relevance of automation designs.
• Have knowledge of data management strategies to support large-scale genomic information handling.
• Understand the regulatory landscape for laboratory-developed tests as it pertains to automation.

Skills & tools

• Hands-on experience with liquid handling platforms such as Tecan and Hamilton systems.
• Familiarity with software development practices and version control methodologies.
• Strong project management skills to coordinate tasks across multiple stakeholders.
• Experience with integrated robotics and plate-handling systems used in high-throughput environments.
• Ability to write and maintain scripts in common programming languages for automation purposes.
• Understanding of data formats and protocols used in laboratory information systems.
• Capability to troubleshoot hardware and software issues in integrated laboratory setups.
• Effective communication skills to interface with both technical and non-technical team members.

Practical notes

Natera provides comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k plans, fertility care benefits, and parental leave. All official communication will originate from a @natera.com email address; the company does not conduct interviews via text message or request personal data prior to formal engagement with a recruiter.